2025 December Current

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DECEMBER

2025

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A VALLEY-WIDE COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

Eat, Shop,

Be Merry and

Shop local Holiday Guide PAGES 9 - 35

PINES UNDERPASS TAKES SHAPE PAGE 5

AIRMEN RECOGNIZED FOR LANGUAGE SKILLS PAGE 6

SPORTS SUPPLY WRAP UP PAGE 42

2

NEWS

• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

and Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) $64 million. $275,000.

Spokane Overall, the 2026 budget funds.

The tax revenue goes into the The city’s budget directs revenues General Fund, and taking the totals over $148.12 million in Valley council city’s 1% increase would have provided appropriations, including $47.9 and expenses over 31 departments. an additional $141,098 in revenue. million in capital expenditures for City staffing is slated to remain the declines That amount will be “banked,” street, parks, pavement preservation same in 2026 as it is in 2025 at 118.25 could be used at a future date and management, stormwater and full-time equivalent employees. property tax and through a vote of the City Council or railroad grade separations projects.

The projected fund balance for Of that amount, $34.13 million the General Fund at the end of 2026 the public. rate hike — Banked capacity is the difference takes the form of anticipated grant is currently estimated at almost between what a jurisdiction currently revenues, the largest of which goes $42.15 million, 61.56% of recurring again levies and what it could legally levy towards the Pines Road / BNSF expenditures.

By John McCallum Current contributor

For the 16th consecutive year, the Spokane Valley City Council has opted to not take the 1% annual property tax increase as allowed by state law, saving residents around $4 on the annual assessed property value tax bill.

The council approved an ordinance at their Nov. 18 meeting setting the city’s annual property levy at about 79 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value.

“That’s about exactly what we were for 2025, it’s barely different,” Spokane Valley Finance Director Chelsea Walls said.

Based on Spokane County’s calculations of Spokane Valley’s total assessed property value of over $18.22 billion, the rate will yield the city either just over $14.31 million in revenue, based on city estimates, or about $14.27 million in revenue, based on county estimates. The difference between the two estimates comes from different estimates for new construction in the city.

Walls said the city is estimating it will see additional revenue to the General Fund of about $200,000 from construction activity. Last year, the city estimated that amount at about

up to $1.60, which is the maximum allowed by law. If Spokane Valley elected to take the maximum of $1.60, it would produce an additional $1.34 million in revenue in 2026, based on 2025 total assessed property value.

According to information from the Spokane County Assessor’s Office, property taxes levied by Spokane Valley are a small piece of the overall tax pie — about 8%.

The largest piece, 36%, goes to the Central Valley School District — amounting to just over $3.79 per $1,000 of assessed property value, with Spokane Valley Fire District collecting 24% (just over $2.49) and 22% (($2.29) going to statesupported schools.

Spokane County collects 7%, with 3% going to the Spokane County Library District. Those percentages amount to 73 cents and 33 cents respectively and bring the overall rate in Spokane Valley to almost $10.44 per $1,000.

The $14.31 million of 2026 tax revenue represents about 20.68% of the city’s total proposed General Fund recurring revenues of almost $68.59 million. According to the city’s budget presentations to council, that amount is over $4.5 million — 7.05% — greater than the 2025 amended budget of just over

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Grade Separation project which got underway in October, making 71.25% of capital projects paid for through state and federal funds.

Recurring expenses in the General Fund are estimated at almost $68.47 million, 7.93% or just over $5 million more than 2025, leading to revenues exceeding expenses by $181,813.

The appropriations include the $2.6 million in new sales tax revenue voters approved in August to be dedicated to Public Safety.

The additional officers hired through the revenue amounts to an 11.85% in costs for law enforcement, while expenses in the rest of the General Fund departments increased by 1.27%. Non-recurring expense in the General Fund amount to $2.1 million, and include purchases of new information technology, new police vehicles for new and existing officers, services for work on the city’s Comprehensive Plan update and a $652,831 transfer to the Public Safety Equipment Replacement Fund for future vehicle purchases.

Budget expenses in other funds total over $77.84 million, and are paid for through a variety of sources such as the hotel / motel tax, the Transportation Benefit District’s vehicle tab fees, motor vehicle fuel taxes, stormwater management fees

Council held a second public hearing and its first reading of the proposed 2026 budget at its Oct. 28 meeting, voting 5-1 — Councilman Al Merkel voting no with Councilman Ben Wick absent — to advance the ordinance to a second reading. A third public hearing will be held at the Nov. 25 meeting, with council asked to adopt the budget at its Dec. 9 meeting.

Also at the Nov. 5 meeting, the council approved the Tourism Promotion Area (TPA) budget and expenses for 2026. Expenses of $1.775 million along with the TPA work plan was approved on Sept.

16, with council approving $30,000 for geo-location software purchase, $875,000 to the city’s destination marketing consultant 116 & West for services and $700,000 to execute a contract amendment with Spokane Sports for 2026 sports recruitment and marketing.

The Finance Department projects TPA revenues of about $1,300,000 in 2026. Funding will also come from approximately $450,000 in reserve funds carried over into the 2026 budget from excess revenues over budgeted amounts collected in prior years.

Council approved the TP budget 5-1, with Merkel voting no.

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4

• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

Spokane Valley breaks ground on Pines / BNSF grade separation project

By John McCallum

Current contributor After 21 years and an additional $37 million, a key element to increasing vehicle safety along a major national transportation corridor — as well as providing regional economic development opportunities — took a big step forward on Oct. 16.

On a seasonally pleasant fall morning, representatives from the Spokane Valley City Council, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, local, state and federal officials tossed shovels of dirt in a groundbreaking ceremony commencing construction of the Pines Road / BNSF Grade Separation Project. Fittingly for a project designed to increase safety while removing rail crossing wait times, the over-half-hour-long ceremony was interrupted three times by passing BNSF trains.

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The $48 million project is the third in the “Bridging the Valley” effort started in 2004 in conjunction with the cities of Spokane and Spokane Valley, along with Spokane County, and the second such project for Spokane Valley. The $26.8 million Barker Road / BNSF grade separation project was completed in April 2023, with just over $22.62 million — 84.3% of funding — coming from state and federal sources and of that, $15.74 million — 58% — federal funds.

The first project, the Havanna Street Overpass spanning both BNSF and Union Pacific rail lines, was completed by the city of Spokane in 2012 at a cost of $7.9 million.

According to the Pines / BNSF project’s webpage, over 90% — $38.5 million — of the funding comes from federal sources. A big boost came in 2022 when the city received $21.7 million from the former

The Current

Biden Administration’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure and Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program.

An additional $5 million comes from the state’s “Move Ahead Washington” grant secured in December 2022. Locally, Avista Utilities donated over $800,000 in land to be used as part of the Centennial Trail improvements.

“It was a very generous donation

by Avista,” Spokane Valley Mayor Pam Haley said at the ceremony.

Haley also said the project is a result of council priorities to increase safety and economic opportunities in the city. It comes through a collaborative effort between a variety of local, state and federal sources.

“This is a great example (of those priorities) as this is the city’s largest capital project to date,” Haley said.

Haley praised BNSF for their project work, which required upgrades to the tracks crossing the nearby Spokane River before construction of the vehicle portion could begin. Haley said the railroads efforts in completing the work quickly “significantly, significantly, significantly” helped reduce the project’s cost.

NEWS

Spokane Valley City Manager John Hohman said. Those challenges led to increases in costs, which were about $11 million when the city took on the project “in earnest” in 2016.

“This is a really, really difficult project as went through all the different alternative analysis to figure out what is going to work here,” Hohman said. “And we ended up with something a little different.”

The project is slated to increase safety at the intersection where, according to information supplied

by Spokane Valley, 49 accidents took place between 2017 – 2021.

Additionally, according to state Department of Transportation accident information compiled by the Spokane Regional Transportation Council, another 47 accidents have occurred at or near the project area between Jan. 1, 2020 and Dec. 31, 2024 with several resulting in minor to serious injuries.

Of the SRTC referenced accidents, five occurred at the Pines Road / BNSF crossing, with three involving

injuries. The crossing was also the site of a train-vehicle accident in 2001 that claimed the lives of two people.

Charlene Kay, Washington State Department of Transportation Region Administrator for the Eastern Region, said the department has been working on a plan developed in 2000-2002 to address traffic safety issues in the region. That includes eliminating as many at-grade rail crossings along the 42-mile stretch of rail line between Spokane and Idaho as possible.

“Safety is our primary focus, and this effort (at Pines) does that,” she said.

The project will also play a key economic role. According to the website, it provides access to about 230 acres of underdeveloped mixeduse, commercial and industrial property in the area primed for development.

A ECONorthwest Economic Benefits Study produced in 2016 indicated over 25 years, the projected economic and tax impacts of the

DECEMBER 2025 • 5

project include “$1.3 billion in total economic output in Spokane County ($686 million in direct spending), 8,719 new jobs supported in Spokane County (4,312 direct job impacts), $8.2 million in new general fund taxes to Spokane Valley (25 years at 4%) and $101.9 million in new general fund taxes to Washington State (25 years at 4%).”

“We’ve got a dynamic, vibrant city that’s on the move and this is part of it,” former 4th District State Senator Mike Padden, a key advocate for the project, told the groundbreaking audience.

By a 6-1 vote at its Aug. 19 meeting, Spokane Valley’s City Council awarded an $11.625 million contract to Active Construction, Inc. for this phase of the Pines / BNSF project.

Active was the lowest responsive bidder and approximately 26% under the engineering estimate.

Councilman Al Merkel, who did not attend the Oct. 16 groundbreaking, cast the lone no vote.

BNSF constructed a new mainline bridge over the river in late September, doing pre-cast work and preparation that enabled the actual bridge to be built and put into service in less than 24 hours. They have since completed construction of a second rail line bridge at the site which is needed to handle increasing freight hauling demands.

“This piece of railroad is key for us to link the Northwest to the rest of the United States,” Kasie Howland, BNSF Northwest Division General Director of Line Maintenance, said.

The project includes a new underpass at the BNSF crossing, eliminating the current street-level crossing. Pines Road and Trent Avenue will be realigned to the east, replacing the current signalized intersection with a multilane roundabout, new pedestrian facilities, lighting and stormwater improvements and a new Centennial Trail trailhead and parking.

The project’s proximity to the Spokane River, orientation of BNSF tracks and other constraints presented a challenge to designers,

Photo by John McCallum Almost on cue, a Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway train passes through the Pines Road / Trent Avenue intersection crossing during groundbreaking ceremonies for the upcoming grade separation project.

6

• DECEMBER 2025

NEWS

The Current

directly with a general observing the that their language learning isn’t Fairchild just about communication, it’s about event.

He asked about access to an EOD shaping the way Airmen think and Airmen disposal range they had been denied how they approach challenges. For For Moskvichova, she initially for years. Within months, access was Moskvichova, switching between languages has changed the way she recognized for applied to LEAP for the professional granted. approaches and solves problems. growth opportunities, but when “Operationally, that was a big “I think in English most of the outstanding the war in Ukraine began, she felt thing for us at Al Dhafra,” Burris an added responsibility to use her said. “I don’t think it would have time, speak English every day language skills in support of the happened if it weren’t for that at work, and most of what I see language mission. general being there and me being on my phone is in English,” said Moskvichova. “But not everything skills Prior to joining LEAP, Burris there to ask him about it.” translates from one language to the to the Language Enabled Airmen Program. Burris was selected for Arabic, while Moskvichova was given Slovenian.

By Senior Airman Morgan St Marks

Current news sources

In an era where global threats are increasingly complex, only two percent of Air Force personnel are proficient in a foreign language.

Beyond translation, language skills foster cultural understanding, build trust and serve as an essential element to mission success.

The Air Force recognized two Airmen- one officer and one enlisted- for using their exceptional skills to make a tangible impact on missions. Lt. Col. Andrew Burris, 336th Training Support Squadron commander, and Staff Sgt. Maria Moskvichova, 92nd Civil Engineer Squadron operations manager, were named the 2024 Air Force Language Capable Airmen of the Year in the officer and enlisted categories.

Moskvichova was born in Ukraine, raised in a bilingual household learning both Ukrainian and Russian simultaneously.

attended the Defense Language Institute, learning Arabic over the course of 18 months through the FAO program. Moskvichova taught herself Slovenian with the help of LEAP-provided online sessions with native speakers.

“Being an integral part of the mission is the most rewarding,” Moskvichova stated. “As an interpreter, you play an important role of relaying the message exactly how the sender intended. There’s a lot of responsibility that falls on you, and you’re directly impacting the mission.”

That impact was clear for Burris during a joint Airfield Damage Repair exercise with Emirati military engineers at the Al Dhafra Air Base.

Burris not only guided participants through the exercise in Arabic but also seized the chance to speak

Airmen who speak another language don’t just act as interpreters; they also provide cultural insight to their teammates.

From understanding local customs to recognizing the importance of learning simple greetings, these skills build the foundation for a successful partnership.

“As we find ourselves needing to operate abroad in cooperation with other counties, their willingness and excitement to work with us increases if we can show them that we’ve put effort into understanding them, beyond just a ‘yes’ or a ‘no,’” Burris explained. “You can make a pretty big difference with just a greeting in the host nation language. They don't expect fluency, but it makes a big difference if they see that you're meeting them halfway.”

Their experiences also highlight

next. It’s made me think outside the box and approach in ways you wouldn’t normally.”

Burris echoed that sentiment, adding that his experiences overseas reshaped his own leadership style.

“Working with folks from other countries, has really broadened my perspective,” said Burris. “I try to convey that to my team, that we may not have a perfect understanding of where other folks are coming from, but putting in the effort to see their perspective actually makes our job easier in supporting them.”

With fewer than two percent of Airmen possessing these critical skills, Burris and Moskvichova hope their stories inspire others to see language as more than words, but as a bridge to connection, understanding and mission success.

“I grew up learning both [languages] at the same time. I can't really tell which one I'm more proficient in, but I prefer Ukrainian.

It's just more melodic,” Moskvichova explained.

When Moskvichova was five, her parents provided a private English tutor, which proved invaluable when she moved to the United States at age 15.

For Burris, language was a personal passion rather than a requirement. He studied Spanish all throughout high school and even minored in it in college.

“Languages have always been something that really interested me,” said Burris. “Even before, as a cadet in ROTC, I was researching the Foreign Area Officer program and thinking ‘that's something I want to do once I get into the Air Force.’ I wanted to learn a new language and use it, and I loved the cultural part of it and the diplomatic part of it.”

Both Airmen eventually applied

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Heather Ley From left, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Andrew Burris, 336th Training Support Squadron commander, and Staff Sgt. Maria Moskvichova, 92nd Civil Engineer Squadron operations manager, stand in front of the Headquarters building at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, Sept. 26, 2025. Burris and Moskvichova were named the 2024 Air Force Language Capable Airmen of the Year in the officer and enlisted categories.

The Current

Spend wisely with Consumer Reports and your library card

By Erin Dodge Current Guest Contributor

As family budgets shrink, many people are being thriftier and spending money wisely on items that will last. Spokane County Library District (SCLD) has an online resource to help you see which brands have the best, and worst, ratings before you buy.

Consumer Reports ranks hundreds of items, both big-ticket and small items, in an unbiased and fair manner, including items such as air filters, portable generators, home security systems, large and small appliances, as well as hundreds more.

The rated features vary based on the item being reviewed. For example, portable generators are rated on power delivery, power quality, noise, CO safety

LIBRARY technology, fuel efficiency, and more. Air filters are put through expert lab tests and rated on dust, pollen, and smoke removal, airflow resistance, and annual cost.

Expecting parents can research the highest rated and safest equipment and accessories for their newest member of the family.

Consumer reports has reviews for car seats, strollers, play yards, sleep and nursery, feeding and nursery, and more. Before you put together your baby registry or wish list, find the equipment and items with the features you need, on budget and with good ratings.

Within the “Home & Garden” category, you’ll even find ratings and reviews for homeowners insurance that have been collected from surveys. Since insurance isn’t a tangible item that can be tested in a lab, Consumer Reports suggests that you use the ratings as a place to start when considering which insurance company to go with when your policy is up for renewal.

The survey results include rankings for premiums, policy clarity, claims,

DECEMBER 2025 • 7 SPOK ANE COUNT Y LIBR ARY DISTRICT

coverage, website, and more.

Consumer Reports also offers articles that give you the latest information on popular products tested in their labs and by their experts. Two recent articles feature refrigerators and TVs. With over 278 refrigerators rated, you can read “Best Refrigerators: Top 10 Models for November 2025” to see how they stack up. If you’re looking for a new TV, the article “Best TVs of 2025, Tested by Our Experts” gives you insight into 4K sets on the market.

Whether you frequent Argonne, Otis Orchards, or Spokane Valley Library, all you need is your library card to access free online resources.

Spokane County Library District (SCLD) offers digital resources to help students of all ages succeed with their studies. Here’s a closer look at three.

With HelpNow, you have access to live, online tutors from 2pm to 11:59pm every day (except holidays). Tutoring is available for K-12 students, those in college, and for anyone preparing for college entrance exams, such as the SAT, ACT, and Accuplacer. You can also get one-on-one help filling out your FAFSA application, which helps determine your eligibility for types of college financial aid.

HelpNow offers homework help for a variety of subjects, including

create your own for efficient selfstudy. You can also send a question about a subject or assignment at any time to receive help within 24 hours.

The SkillSurfer section includes lessons to read, videos to watch, and practice tests to explore a variety of subjects. Along with the school subjects of math, geography, history, science, you’ll find ESL help, GED test preparation, and resources for life skills, including money management, home maintenance, and emergency preparation.

HelpNow is a digital resource for all ages and grades, from elementary to college and even adult learners. Get started at www.scld.org/helpnow.

ProQuest eLibrary provides guided research, including an extensive list of research topics, making it easier to find the information and resources needed for high school and college

Family Museum Passes

Checking Consumer Reports before your next purchase, no matter how big or small, could help you make a smart choice that won’t cost you more to fix or replace down the road. Check it out for free with your library card at scld.org/ consumer-reports.

You can also explore SCLD’s other digital resources for lifelong learning classes, streaming movies and TV, digital books and magazines, and more at scld.org/ digital.

study guides and practice tests. The students.

Library digital Writing Lab offers skilled feedback.

Discover reliable, fact-checked resources offer You can upload writing assignments information about artificial to receive constructive feedback intelligence, the Salem witch trials, daily online within 24 hours.

Armistice Day, and hundreds of other tutoring, homework You can sharpen your skills and subjects. Topics include historical knowledge with Flashbulb, which are events, English language arts, the help for all digital flash cards. There are hundreds environment, performing and visual students of preloaded subjects, or you can arts, science and mathematics, social

By Erin Dodge Current Guest Contributor

EXPLORE ENRICHING EXPERIENCES WITH

and political sciences, and sports and health. You can also cite sources in multiple formats to include in your papers and projects with just a few clicks. Access this resource at scld. org/elibrary.

Gale: Academic OneFile offers resources and a variety of topics to study for each grade level of elementary, middle, and high school. Browsable topics include biology, chemistry, criminal justice, economics, environmental science, history, and psychology. The Topic Finder tool shows a graphic layout of the most common keywords found within your search, giving you the power to dive deeper into subtopics.

To try it out, visit scld.org/academiconefile.

SCLD has over 20 digital resources for homework help that students can access. Check them out at scld.org/ homework-help.

Photo: Mobius Discovery Center

Reserve a pass to explore: Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture Mobius Discovery Center Passes provide admission for up to 2 adults & 4 children from the same household.

Find out more at scld.org/museum-passes Program funded by the Diane E. Zahand Fund & the Library Foundation of Spokane County

scld.org

8

• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

49th Annual Christmas

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Join us and enjoy learning about the inspiring work being done by our 40+ featured nonprofit organizations and how you can get involved and support their work.

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DECEMBER 2025 • 9

The Current

2025

Eat, Shop,

Be Merry Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This guide has been made with our community in mind. We have made a tradition of gathering as many offerings from the heart of our community, small businesses.

Shops have been suffering. These hard working people have been doing their best to keep to keep their doors open in order to keep serving all of you. We hope that you will utilize these exceptional small businesses to choose one of a kind options this holiday season and all year long.

These establishments will guide you to “Eat, Shop and Be Merry.”

Ben Wick, Publisher

Your Guide to Support Local this Holiday Season PARTNERING SPONSORS:

10

• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

Come Experience the Magic Holiday Hours of the season at Monday through Saturday 9 AM-6PM and Sunday 10:30 AM-5PM Simply Northwest

We deliver locally and ship nationwide

11806 E. Sprague Ave. Spokane Valley, WA, 99206

509-927-8206 • www.simplynorthwest.com

DECEMBER 2025 • 11

The Current

Chavelitas 3 Ninjas

509-862-9604, 21802 E Indiana Ave, Liberty Lake Fusion restaurant offering a unique spin on tacos, sandwiches, wraps and rice bowls. We also offer delicious hot sauces that we make and bottle in house! Come enjoy our fun atmosphere or order to go.

Fujiyama

Chavelitas is a new twist on traditional Mexican, and American comfort food by fusioning the two cultures together. We believe in providing high quality ingredients in our cocktails and food. Almost everything is made in-house, and made fresh daily.

Authentic Japanese hibachi style dining. Not only is the food delicious, but the experience is worth checking off your list. Offering take-out options.

We have gone in search of tasty morsels to tantalize your taste buds this holiday season when you need a break from the kitchen. Here are some local establishments ready to serve you something delicious.

Bankok Thai

509-505-4108, 1312 N Whitman Ln, Liberty Lake Bangkok Thai is a fantastic restaurant offering delicious Thai food with top-notch flavors and quality portions. The interior design is modern and new, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

509-924-1446, 1428 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake

A favorite since opening in 2009, enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in their friendly atmosphere.

509-903-0888, 21801 E Country Vista Dr, Liberty Lake

Fares to Share

t

Barlows

Otis Restaurant

509-919-4125, 22302 E Country Vista Dr suite A, Liberty Lake

Crepe Cafe Sisters 1950 N Harvest Pkwy, Liberty Lake

The sisters’ crepes are made from scratch; from their sweet Berry Nutty to their savory Oinker, every taste bud will be satisfied with their full menu. Gluten free and vegan options available.

509-381-5956, 21902 E Wellesley Ave, Otis Orchards

If you are looking for new foods to try and absolutely love new gastronomic discoveries, visit us!

Palenque’s

509-928-3112, 21951 E Country Vista Ste. A, Liberty Lake Palenque Mexican Restaurants est in 1993, owned and operated by Jose “Chuy” and Gena “Mama G” Ceresero. Our Mexican Fare recipes are based out of Jalisco Mexico.

Hay J’s/Piccolo’s Pentagon Bistro 509-926-2310, Liberty Lake

21706

E

Mission Ave,

Our goal at Hay J’s is to provide a dining experience that stimulates the senses and creates lasting memories.

Eat - Fares to Share

LIBERTY LAKE

509-891-7790, 1400 N Meadowwood Ln, Liberty Lake An American bistro with an foreigners touch! Steaks, seafood and small plates! Cozy and friendly atmosphere that is a must try!

12

• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

Eat - Fares to Share

Sip Some

CHEER

Trailbreaker Cider Snow Eater Brewery

509-862-6954, 2325 N Mckinzie Ln, Liberty Lake Where beer and adventure meet.

Gather and celebrate in the kidfriendly and dog-friendly tap room.

All are welcome.

509-279-2159, 2204 N Madison St, Liberty Lake We have drink options for everyone including our 24 taps of cider, beer rotation and wine. Plus amazing food and fun atmosphere for your night out.

Bearded Ginger Bar and Grill 509-928-8600, 8125 Spokane Valley

E

Sprague

Ave,

Some of the best damn feel good food in town from your local “five star dive bar”!!!!

Old Mill Bar & Grill 509-389-8296, 3405 N Argonne Rd, Millwood

A Millwood neighborhood staple serving yummy food.

The Rock Bar & Grill

509-919-3926, 13921 E Trent Ave Friendly neighborhood bar with great food and drinks

The Black Diamond 509-891-8357, 9614 Spokane Valley

Emry’s 509-505-4519, 21850 E Wellington Pkwy, Liberty Lake

Historical-modern fusion beer and mead accompanied by smash burgers. MON: Closed TUE-SAT: 12-9 SUN: 12-8

E

Sprague

Ave,

We provide a fun, casual atmosphere serving an upscale gastropub cuisine with an outstanding selection of craft beer and high quality fresh juice and craft cocktails. We strive to wow people with the experience they receive here complimented by our unique, classy design and decor.

The Barrel Bar and Grill 114 E Lake St., Medical Lake

Serving good food, good drinks, and entertainment. Open from 6AM2:00AM daily.

DECEMBER 2025 • 13

The Current

Azteca

Pryor’s

509-226-3707, 24706 E Wellesley Ave, Otis Orchards A beloved, family-owned “Ma and Pa” restaurant with a reputation for serving the best fish n’ chips in Spokane, and we wear that title with humble pride. Our commitment to quality food and top-notch customer service is at the heart of everything we do. Come dine with us and experience what makes us truly special!

509-228-9661,14700 E. Indiana St., Spokane Valley We love our customers and our employees are treated like family.

They, in turn, treat you like family.

Tamale Box 509-474-1054, Liberty Lake

2658

N.

Wildrye

St.,

After five seasons of farmers markets, Tamale Box opened their new location in Liberty Lake. Come taste the locale La Peñita, Mexico recipes that have traveled with their family and landed in your backyard.

Always fresh, never frozen, and Five flavor-packed filling options!

Ambrosia

509-928-3222,9211 E Montgomery, Spokane Valley Great food, fine wine, and special friends…what else is there?

Explore our creative menu.

Bankok Thai

509-315-9943, 101 N Argonne, Spokane Valley Bangkok Thai is a fantastic restaurant offering delicious Thai food with top-notch flavors and quality portions. The interior design is modern and new, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

River City Pizza True Legends 509-922-6322, 4707 N Harvard Rd, Otis Orchards Homemade dough, fresh mozzarella and classic ingredients. Try one of their signature pizzas or make one all your own. What’s not to love! Sit in or delivery available

&

e with

Sushi House 509-921-1901, 1332 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake

Enjoy tasty and authentic meals at Sushi House and Asian Food. Our menu has something for everyone to love from fresh fish to filling noodle dishes.

509-892-3077, 1803 N Harvard Rd, Liberty Lake Now serving a new burger menu!

“Legendary Movie Villians”. We offer curbside pickup and delivery. Visit www.TrueLegendsGrill.com and place your order.

Versalia Pizza

509-290-5277, 20760 E Indiana Ave, Liberty Lake Serving our hand-crafted pizzas in the Inland Northwest since 2009! Our goal is to bring something special to the local community, using only the freshest ingredients and a wood-fired oven to create the perfect pizza.

Arabian Palace

509-251-3459, 4902 E sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Serving Arab food (Middle Eastern food). A new place where great food, unforgettable flavors, and a cozy atmosphere come together.

ArborCrest Winery

509-927-9463, 4705 N Fruit Hill Dr, Spokane Our Tasting Room & Kitchen is open all year round! Come enjoy new meals and wines added to our menu this winter. Tasting Room & Kitchen is open daily from 12:00 - 5:00PM

Beans and Berries Cafe

421 N Mullan Rd Suite A, Spokane Valley Coffee, smoothies, fresh juice, scratch-made pastries, sammies & salads with soul. Chill café vibes, local love, and a dash of sunshiny joy.

Come sip, snack & stay a while

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SPOKANE VALLEY

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• DECEMBER 2025

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Birrieria el Sazon

Caruso’s

The Black Pearl

Craft and Gather

509-960-8101, 11519 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Try our irresistible birria, full of flavor, freshness, and tradition that will transport you directly to the best culinary corners of Mexico.

509-290-5484, 2104 N Pines Rd, Spokane Valley Welcome to Black Pearl Casino — Spokane Valley’s premier destination for table games, poker action, great food, and even better company.

Black Straw

509-315-4093, 11808 East Sprague Avenue, Spokane Valley Menu features a variety of delicious and healthy dishes, as well as a wide variety of refreshing teas.

509-474-0254, 2314 N Argonne Rd, Spokane Valley Caruso’s Sandwiches & Artisan Pizza is a restaurant chain with three convenient locations. Each restaurant offers a diverse menu, impeccable service, and a delightful dining experience. Stop by one of our locations and experience our dailyfresh menu items. We know you will love it!

509-290-5141, 4403 S Dishman Mica, Spokane Valley The clubhouse of the old Painted Hills Golf course brings you approachable food that is a step beyond your expectations. Pick-up and delivery options available.

Crimson Door

509-598-8927, 11003 E Sprague, Spokane Valley A Eurpoean inspired restaurant specializing in open hearth cooking.

Many of the recipes are made-fromscratch and have been passed down generations.

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Conley’s 509-924-5411, 12622 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Offering American fares with an Irish twist. Whether you visit them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner you are sure to leave with a full, happy stomach. Check out our facebook for specials. Pick-up options available.

509-891-6555, 12119 E Trent Ave Authentic Mexican Food Opened Monday-Saturday, Family Owned, Family Orientated, Amazing Friendly Service.

Dave’s Bar and Ferraro’s Grill 509-926-9640, 12124 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley The Valley’s original neighborhood bar and grill. Serving the Spokane area since 1989!!

509-928-2303, 11204 E Sprague Ave Family owned and operated Italian restaurant. Very family friendly.

Take out - curbside pick up we are masked up and sanitized to serve you in a safe environment. Family style dinners (feed 4-5) off the mama classic entrées and take n bakes still available!

De Leon

509-926-5009, 15530 E Sprague Ave, Hot Pot & Pho Spokane Valley De Leon Foods is a Grocery Store as well as a Mexican Restaurant, Bakery, Catering Company, home of Sergio’s Tortillas and Anthony’s SeaChips.

509-862-4944, 11110 E Sprague Choose from hot pot with customizable protein, spice level, and broth. Veggie options are also available.

Longhorn BBQ Jake and Clay’s Public House

509-443-3841, 106 N Evergreen Rd Suite B, Spokane Valley A beer and wine bar in the Spokane Valley specializing in housemade soups, sandwiches, and salads.

Jenny’s Cafe

509-928-8055, 9425 E Sprague American style food ranging from breakfast items to sandwiches and desserts. Just down right good food.

Vegetarian and gluten free options available. Offering dine in and take out service through DoorDash or Ubereats.

Little Tokyo 509-309-2992, 509 N Sullivan Rd Unit E, Spokane Valley Our cozy restaurant brings you authentic hibachi, ramen, udon, bento box, and traditional Japanese dishes crafted with fresh ingredients and a passion for perfection with every bite!

509-924-9600, 2315 N Argonne A longtime family favorite in Spokane Valley. Their sandwiches (beef, turkey, ham, or pork) can be eaten in the restaurant or picked up and taken back to your home to enjoy. Don’t forget their juicy steaks and yummy ribs too!

Lucky Bistro 509-443-3967, 2315 N Argonne Located in the heart of Spokane Valley, we’re your go-to destination for expertly brewed coffee, craft beer, fine wine, and hand-crafted food, with a menu packed with fresh, flavorful dishes to satisfy any craving.

From hearty morning classics to tasty flatbreads, wraps, and salads, every meal is made with care and served with a smile.

Market Street Pizza 11420 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Step into our cozy, family-friendly neighborhood pizza spot where delicious, handcrafted brick-oven pizzas take center stage. Enjoy a nostalgic arcade, the best wings in town, a fresh salad bar, and a variety of mouthwatering appetizers.

Eat - Fares to Share

Dos Amigos

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Eat - Fares to Share

Smokeridge BBQ Pint House Max @ Mirabeau

509-922-6252, 1100 N Sullivan Welcome to MAX at Mirabeau, Spokane Valley’s award-winning, eclectic restaurant and lounge.

Join us and enjoy 100+ dinner menu items, a scenic outdoor patio and two daily Happy Hours.

509-242-3650, 9214 E Mission Known for its gourmet burgers, cold beer, and lively atmosphere. With two locations, it is a popular spot for sports enthusiasts and music lovers, offering a wide selection of draft beers and a menu featuring mouthwatering options like the Avocado Bacon Burger and Quesadillas.

509-710-3426, 11027 E Sprague, Spokane Valley Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11am till 8pm. We have all your favorite BBQ and Sides, Mixed Drinks, Margaritas, and Beer available for Carry Out and/or curbside. Call or text pre-order 7 days a week.

Three Little Birds Cafe

509-710-3426, 6115 E Trent Ave, Spokane Valley Drive-thru Espresso, Café, Ethiopian traditional and fusion food, smoothies, sandwiches and Ice-Cream and more.

Three Sisters McCracken Irish Rancho Viejo Stockwell’s Restaurant 509-927-8428, 14201 E Sprague, Pub 509-474-9074, 3319 N Argonne Rd, Spokane Valley 509-928-2580, 10615 E Sprague Ave, 509-924-2578, 11723 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Our superior quality meats are rubbed with a proprietary spiced rub blend before going into our authentic Southern-style Smoker right here on premise; where the meats are slow-smoked to perfection over Apple Wood from the local Green Bluff area.

Mongolian BBQ

509-891-7237, 15416 E Sprague Family owned and operated, roomy establishment. Go in, choose all your own fruit, vegetables, meats, noodles, and sauces. Watch them cook it up and then enjoy!

Enjoy a bit of Mexican? Try this family friendly locally owned establishment.

Great for large groups. Friendly service with yummy choices. Don’t worry they will let you take home the left overs.

River City Pizza

509-255-7660, 17018 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Homemade dough, fresh mozzarella and classic ingredients. Try one of their signature pizzas or make one all your own. What’s not to love! Sit in or delivery available

Spokane Valley Stockwells is a community inspired, all inclusive hangout for people of all ages to enjoy. We seek to provide a safe and fun environment geared towards unforgettable experiences.

The Mango Tree

509-290-5801, 14208 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Local Indian restaurant that uniquely blends traditional & modern aspects of this amazing cuisine.

Spokane Valley Three Sisters Restaurant offers delicious and affordable food, making it a great dining destination.

The staff are known for their politeness and attentiveness, providing excellent service.

Standout dishes include the spicy king pao tofu, recognized for its tasty heat, and the #12 pho, which is a favorite among customers who appreciate generous portions.

Vacqueros

509-922-0770, 16208 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley Serving fine Mexican cuisine.

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d’Bali Asian Bistro 2 West Bar and Grill

509-244-5866, 9015 W. Hwy 2 Located @ the Hilton Garden Inn @ Spokane Airport. Serving a variety of gourmet American Cuisine.

509-230-8629,12924 W Sunset Hwy Suite 6 We specialize in regional cuisine of Southeast Asia - Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand. Our signature Family Dining Table is the heart of our restaurant

House of Seoul

509-244-3761,12721 W 14th Ave Authentic Korean Cuisine. UPDATED hours! Tuesday - Friday 11 AM - 8 PM Saturday 12 PM - 8 PM Sunday Monday CLOSED Holidays CLOSED

509-244-9921,13112 W Sunset Hwy A small, clean eatery with a warm atmosphere.

The menu offers authentic Korean cuisine, including delicious and reasonably priced dishes such as Bulgogi Ramen and kim chi. With a focus on using fresh ingredients, Fusion Korean Restaurant serves up perfect meals that are sure to please.

Mongolian Fry La Presa Mexican 509-747-2061, 10414 US-2 Customize your bowl with various Restaurant 509-244-7001, 13308 W Sunset Hwy The food is praised for its tasty flavors, including the “off the hook” salsa and the perfectly seasoned and cooked sizzling fajita with halibut and shrimp.

Ginger Teriyaki 509-244-0197,13008 West Sunset Hwy and Thai Longhorn BBQ 509-413-2579,13032 W Sunset Hwy Billie’s Diner

An award winning, farmer-first restaurant serving American favorites in Airway Heights, WA. Open seven days a week from 6a.m. - 2p.m.

Masselow’s Steakhouse

509-481-6020, 100 N Hayford Road Masselow’s offers an expansive menu of Prime steaks, the freshest seafood, and house-made pasta.

Fusion Korean 3 Peaks Kitchen Restaurant 509-818-1547, 14300 W SR-2 Hwy Scratch-made food with local ingredients located inside the Spokane Tribe Casino. “Three Peaks” refers to the 3 prominent peaks in the region: Mount Spokane, Cayuse Mountain and Steptoe Butte which roughly outline the Spokane Tribe’s ancestral homelands.

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AIRWAY HEIGHTS

This popular eatery offers a delicious fusion of Japanese teriyaki and authentic Thai cuisine.

509-838-8372, 7611 West Sunset Hwy Authentic Texas-style Barbecue.

TENDIN’ THE PITS SINCE ‘56!

various ingredients including pork, chicken, vegetables and then watch them cook it for you on a circular hot pan and enjoy!

The Rusty Moose

509-747-5579, 9105 W US 2 Rusty Moose offers a dining experience specializing in elevated traditional American fare featuring burgers, wild game and steak while supporting the local food community.

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Eat - Fares to Share

MEDICAL LAKE

CHENEY

Birrieria Tijuana

Sala Thai

509-244-4800, 12914 W Sunset Highway Everything on our menu is made to order, resulting in better flavor and a better dining experience for you! We believe in the intimate relationship between your food and the pan, and pride ourselves on presenting you with a made to order meal. Nothing on our menu is pre-made, and everything is always fresh! Sun - Mon CLOSED Tues - Fri 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM & 4:00 PM 7:30 PM Saturday 2:00 PM - 7:30 PM

509-290-2528,1204 1st St Monday - Sunday9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Athenaeum

509-559-0077, 116 N Lefevre Street Come enjoy a completely different ambiance - coffee still served, or enjoy a glass of local beer or wine along with a full menu of dinner, hors d’oeuvre, and desserts made in-house and fresh!

Arturo’s Mexican

509-559-5220, 1810 2nd St A family owned restaurant offering fresh, healthy, appetizing food assortment that will leave you feeling like family. Delicious Mexican food that will be sure to satisfy!!

Chinese Gardens Sirinya’s Thai Restaurant

509-321-7042, 13614 W Sunset Hwy Serving great Thai food to our community with a lounge to polish off your day and relax.

Mon - Thur 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Fri 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM, Sat 11:00 AM 1:00 AM Sun 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

El Ixtapa

509-299-2875,116 S Lefevre St Beloved local spot known for its delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine. Overall, El Ixtapa Restaurant is described as a hidden gem that is worth visiting. Every day 11 am - 9 pm

Barrelhouse Pub and Pizza

509-235-4338, 122 College Avenue Barrelhouse Pub & Pizza has been serving up delicious handmade pizzas, calzones, sandwiches, and salads since 2017.

Eagle’s Pub

Pizza Factory Wolffy’s

509-368-9749, 12807 W 14th Ave. Wolffy’s has been proudly serving the Spokane area for 30 years now and have remained Family Owned & Operated since day one. It has been our pleasure to provide you with Freshly Prepared food everyday Hours: 8am - 2pm 7 Days a Week

509-299-9100,123 S Broad Street Crafted with 100% real mozzarella and our signature sauce, each pizza is a flavorful masterpiece that stands as a testament to the hard work and attention to detail of our dedicated staff and owners. Join us in Medical Lake and savor the hometown goodness that has defined us for decades!

509-235-6926, 1106 First Street Since 1970, Chinese Gardens Restaurant has been serving delicious Chinese food to the people of Cheney. Tuesday - Saturday: 4:30p - 8:00pm Closed on Sunday and Monday

Bene’s

509-951-5207, 24 W 1st Bene’s strives to have the best breakfast food around, as well as the best service! Our values stand on quality and consistency.

509-235-6294, 414 1st St Located in the heart of Cheney!

Pool, ping pong, shuffle board, karaoke and trivia all in one place!

Monday 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM Tuesday 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM Wednesday 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM Thursday 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM Friday 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM Saturday 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM Sunday 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM

DECEMBER 2025 • 19

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El Rodeo 509-235-5679, 505 2nd St El Rodeo in Cheney is a standout Mexican restaurant worth revisiting.

With friendly staff and delicious margaritas, it offers great food with huge portions at reasonable prices.

The salsa is a hit!

Rosa’s Pizza

509-235-5678, 1706 2nd St Known for the most addictive cheesebread and ranch in the world.

Supa!

Farmhouse Cafe 509-304-2333, 1630 1st St This family friendly restaurant is a cozy spot where the staff takes pride in serving delicious food with a personal touch.

Gerardo’s Authentic Mexican 509-235-1192, 723 1st St Gerardo’s Authentic Mexican Food in Cheney offers a variety of Mexican dishes, with the Super Fries being a popular choice despite a previous mix-up with sour cream.

509-999-0536, 321 1st St Supa! Authentic Japanese Kitchen offers excellent quality and atmosphere. Friendly staff serve affordable meals with generous portions. The ramen is top-notch, and the kimchi is a highlight. Open daily 11 am - 8 pm.

The Mason Jar

509-359-8052, 101 F Street To provide a space for community building, gathering friends and creating memories; accompanied with excellent food and beverage. An inclusive space for ALL!

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Eat -Holiday Desserts

Holiday Desserts Why not take something off your list this year to give you some extra time to share with friends and family? Here are some excellent desserts that you can pick -up or order last minute to finish off your holiday table with the same tradition and flair, but without all the time and clean-up. We hope you will try out these tasty treats this holiday season.

Conley’s 12622 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley (509) 924-5411

Nothing Bundt Cakes 2525 E 29th Ave, Spokane (509) 535-4864 nothingbundtcakes.com

New Love/Bean & Pie 21802 E Indiana Ave, Liberty Lake Crust us… you’re gonna want a slice of this!!

Desserts by Sara 10502 E Montgomery Dr., Ste 3, Spokane Valley (509) 922-6039 Can order online

Just American Desserts 213 S University Rd., Spokane Valley (509) 927-2253 Menu available on their website. Call to order.

The Mason Jar 101 F St, Cheney (509) 359-8052

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Yoke’s Fresh Market 1233 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake (509) 927-0300

HG

Celebrations 315 S Sullivan, Spokane Valley (509) 315-5973

Happy Cake 1312 N Mullan, Spokane Valley (509) 924-8455

Arabesque Farms and Bakery

208 E Lake St, Medical Lake (509) 270-3075 Open Tuesday 12 - 5 pm Bake my Day 18123 E Appleway, Spokane Valley

(509) 270-9573 Call in advance to order

Just Chillin’ 1322 N Liberty Lake Rd., Liberty Lake (509) 413-1615 Call or stop by to order

Blissful Whisk Scale House Market 4422 E 8th Ave, Spokane Valley

Eat -Holiday Desserts

Rise Espresso & Dough 1201 N Barker, Spokane Valley (509) 924-5129

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• DECEMBER 2025

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Ho, Ho, Ho!

Now - December 24 Schedule your Santa photos ahead of time and learn more at riverparksquare.com. STCU members receive $10 off holiday photo packages when using an STCU credit or debit card at purchase on-site or online!

SECURE • COVERED • CONVENIENT

PARKING

Main & Post

RIVERPARKSQUARE.COM

Shopping.

Dining. ! c i  a  ay

Hoid

SANTA PHOTOS PRESENTED BY

DECEMBER 2025 • 23

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When you go out shopping this holiday season check out these local businesses and support the businesses of our community while finding unique, eclectic, personal or elegant gifts for anyone on your shopping list.

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LIBERTY LAKE

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1. Adorkable

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509-922-6300 • 1326 N Liberty Lake Rd Purchase custom or prearranged flowers, candy bouquets, potted plants, collectibles, local artist work, and more

2. Collected Goods

HG

509-609-6435 • 1314 N Liberty Lake Road Home Decor - Gifts - Clothing!

3. Liberty Lake Wine Cellars

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509-255-9205 • 23110 E Knox Ave

Liberty Lake Wine Cellars is a boutique winery. All wine production takes place onsite from crush, to fermentation, to barrel aging, to bottling and storage.

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4. Lorraine Fine Jewelry

509-701-2711 • 21950 E Country Vista Dr, Suite 600 Adorn yourself with unique jewelry as fine as you. With 5 generations of excellence behind us, we are proud to provide you with the most beautiful jewelry at the best price

5. Pawpular Companions

509-927-8890 • 21801 E Country Vista Dr. #111

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The owners, Carl and Mara, and their staff are friendly and knowledgeable and take the time to help you make choices that are best for you and your furry family.

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6. Plush 509-892-0826 • 1330 N liberty lake rd We are a full service salon and boutique.

7. Sarah Hamilton FACE 509-210-0228 • 1334 N Whitman Ln, Suite 210 Specializes in anti-aging and skin rejuvenation for all ages. Offers an extensive selection of treatments and products.

Shop - Gift Guide

Local Gift Guide

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• DECEMBER 2025

Shop - Gift Guide

SPOKANE VALLEY

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8. Aloha Vintage Mercantile 509-816-3865 • 8901 E Trent Ave

Bringing Aloha to Spokane Valley, WA! Shop our great selection of handmade, vintage, and one of a kind antiques.

9. Appleway Florist

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509-924-5050 • 11006 E Sprague Ave This longtime valley business has a large selection of candles, plush, balloons and gift items to choose from along with their beautiful floral arrangements.

10. Big Bear Chocolates

509-891-2662 • Located near the food court in the Spokane Valley Mall Here you can find delicacies ranging from fudge and chocolates to caramel apples and ice cream.

11. Brickhouse

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509-891-1999 • 14222 E Sprague Ave We have the spa package to fit your needs.

Give us a call to schedule your perfect BrickHouse spa day today!

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12. Bruttles 509-228-9509 • 12609 E Sprague Ave Original soft peanut brittle, salt water taffy, caramels, butter toffee and chocolate bark. Holiday themed gifts ready for quick pick up.

13. Elz Tastes and Teas

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509-315-4036 • 328 N Sullivan

Specialize in an array of of herbs, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and specialty loose leaf teas sure to please any conesuer.

14. Fleet Feet

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509-309-2174 • 13910 E. Indiana Ave

Fleet Feet Sports Spokane is dedicated to supporting Spokane’s running and fitness enthusiast communities by providing quality training programs, educational opportunities and the right footwear and apparel to meet your needs.

15. Hallet’s Marketplace

509-926-4076 • 14109 E Sprague Ave, #2 The marketplace section of this unique business offers a generous makeup of soup mixes, jams, candles, beverages, dips and more- all made in the Pacific Northwest.

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DECEMBER 2025 • 25

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509-924-5464 • 11907 E Trent Ave

For over 50 years Irv’s has been educating the community on the intricacies of jewelry, rocks, stones and gems. see specials and options on facebook.

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17. Jema Ln Boutique

509-321-2330 • 11703 E. Sprague Ave. Suite B3 Jema Lane Boutique is a women’s clothing store with something for everyone, sizes XS-3X.

18. Latah Creek Winery 509-309-3345 • 13030 E Indiana Ave

Since 1982 they have continued to blaze new trails in winemaking, producing new varieties each season along with their acclaimed lineup of established wines. Stop by and check out their wine of the month.

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19. Mulberry Market

248-462-4228 • 17325 E Sprague Ave

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Gift, wares, and decor curated with local vendors and artists. Shop for unique items or join a class. See www.mulberrymarketco. com for more.

20. Pine Street Market - Rebel Junk 509-263-2232 • 12107 E Sprague

Find unique gifts from over 100 vendors featuring antiques, vintage items, handmade, and one of a kind.

21. The Planted Cauldron

509-413-2770 • 1510 N Argonne Rd Suite H It’s Always Happy Hour At Our Soil Bar! Locally woman owned houseplants and snack bar.

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22. Sculptured Gardens 509-290-6866 • 15614 E Sprague Ave.

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Locally owned and operated, Sculptured Gardens is conveniently located in the heart of Spokane Valley, Washington. We pride ourselves on offering superior customer service, high-quality gardening supplies, healthy and beautiful plants, and unique gift items.

Shop - Gift Guide

16. Irv’s Rock Shop

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Shop Gift Guide

23. Silver Bow Fly23.

Shop Silver Bow 509-924-9998 • 13210 E Indiana Ave Fly Shop With a goal of “making fish nervous,” this

The Current

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509-924-9998 • 13210 E Indiana Ave business focuses on carrying gear that is tried a goalwho of “making fishthe nervous,” this and true forWith all those wish to try art business focuses on carrying gear that is tried of fly fishing. and true for all those who wish to try the art of fly fishing.

24. Simply 24. Simply Northwest 509-927-8206 • 11806 E Sprague Ave Northwest

509-927-8206 • 11806 E Sprague Ave They offer the ability to choose, or have them create, unique gifts for family member or them They offer theany ability to choose, or have friend thiscreate, holiday season and year round. unique gifts forall any family member or friend this holiday season and all year round.

Shop online at simplynorthwest.com.

Shop online at simplynorthwest.com.

25. Spokane 25. Spokane Gallery Gallery 509-747-0812 • 409 S Dishman Mica

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509-747-0812 • 409 S Dishman Mica

We are a full time, 3000 sq ft, Art Gallery, We are a full time, 3000 sq ft, Art Gallery, providing a full Custom Frame shop and providing a full Custom Frame shop and boutique - showcasing work by over 80 boutique - showcasing work by over 80 regional artists and national limited edition regional artists and national limited edition publishers. With an ever-changing selection publishers. With an ever-changing selection of art, jewelry, carvings,carvings, sculpture, of art, pottery, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, handmadehandmade and vintage and home vintagedecor home items, decor items, we alwayswe have something new to delight always have something new to the delight the senses. senses.

LIBERTYLLAKE AKEW WINE INE CELLARS LIBERTY Celebrating 20 20 Years Years Celebrating Award Winning Winning ofofAward Excellence Excellence Join us for a tasting Join&us for a us tasting follow on & social followmedia us on social media

us help Celebrate LetLet us help youyou Celebrate this Holiday Season this Holiday Season 328 N Sullivan Rd, Suite 2 WA 99037 328 NSpokane SullivanValley Rd, Suite 2

Spokane Valley WA 99037 (509) 315-4036 www.tastesandtea.com (509) 315-4036

www.tastesandtea.com Now open 7 days a week Now open 7 days a week

Hours: Friday, Noon-8:00 p.m Hours: Saturday, Noon-5 p.m.

Friday, Noon-8:00 p.m Sunday, Noon-5 p.m.

Saturday, Noon-5 p.m.

Sunday, Noon-5 p.m.

2023 WA State Winery the Year!

2023 WAofState

Winery of the Year!

23110 E. Knox Ave. Liberty Lake, WA 99109 23110 E. Knox Ave. LibertyLakeWineCellars.com

Liberty Lake, WA 99109 LibertyLakeWineCellars.com

DECEMBER 2025 • 27

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26. The Bike HUB 509-443-4005 • 12505 E Sprague Ave. #101

A friendly, full-service bicycle shop in the heart of Spokane Valley. Go in and let the friendly staff help you, or browse their catalog online.

27. The Bohemian

509-309-3236 • 12019 E Sprague Ave

A collection of unique refurbished and handcrafted items ranging from decor and furniture to clothing and skin care. Roam through and find some treasures.

28. The Healing Boutique 509-475-4529 • 9803 E Sprague Ave

A Healing Boutique of Modalities from around the World! We will be sharing tools for healing through sound vibrations, Crystals, Oracle cards, books, essential oils, tapestry and more. Check out their facebook for monthly calendar of events.

29. The Great NW Vendor Mall

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509-413-1369 • 6206 E Trent Start your Christmas shopping off right this year by shopping local. So may one of a kind treasures! We have vintage items, used items, new items, and hand made items!

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30. The Plant Farm 509-926-9397 • 14208 E 4th Ave

Visit The Plant Farm® for locally grown plants, flowers, and home decor.

31. Tracy Jeweler 509-893-2929 • 106 N Evergreen

Family owned since 1950, they stock a broad selection of diamond and colored gemstone jewelry along with offering jewelry repair, custom design, restoration and appraisal services.

32. Trovato Interiors

509-217-6646 • 9919 E Sprague Ave Norwalk Custom Furniture, Bramble, Aidan Gray, Home Accents and Accessories. Special holiday touches to make your home truly magical this season.

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• DECEMBER 2025

Shop Gift Guide

33. Uncle’s Games

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509-891-7620 • Located in the Spokane Valley Mall

Locally owned shop featuring board games, puzzles, books and more. Online and pick-up options available.

34. Uncle Sam’s Flag & Gift 509-924-0677 • 14109 E Sprague Ave, Suite 1 Uncle Sam’s Flag & Gift is a local & veteran-owned business that specializes in flags, flagpoles, and flagpole accessories. One special accessory we carry for the holidays is the Fairybell LED Christmas Trees. We have styles that utilize your existing flagpole, and some that include their own pole. Prices range from $300-$600, depending on size and number of lights.

35. Concrete Works

509-922-6111 • Located in the Spokane Valley Mall We are proudly family owned and operated right here in Spokane Valley. We are dedicated to manufacturing the highest quality, and most affordable statuary that we can possible makes.

36. Play it Again Sports

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509-862-4153 • 15412 East Sprague Avenue, Suite 12 Play It Again Sports is your locally owned neighborhood sporting goods store. We buy and sell quality used and new sports and fitness equipment..

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c

37. Vintage Market

509-922-6111 • Located in the Spokane Valley Mall We are proudly family owned and operated right here in Spokane Valley. We are dedicated to manufacturing the highest quality, and most affordable statuary that we can possible makes.

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gift

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c o l l e c t e d

1314 N LIBERTY LAKE RD LIBERTY LAKE next door to Safeway

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gifts ornaments decor clothing holiday cheer

Lake and Lefevre St Medical Lake, WA

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• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

Shop Gift Guide

AIRWAY HEIGHTS

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38. Builder’s Supply & Home Center 509-798-8545 • 1155 S. Lyons Rd

We are your one-stop destination for all your building materials, hardware needs, farm & feed supplies & Home Appliances. We pride ourselves on providing a wide range of high-quality products & exceptional customer service to our local community & beyond.

39. Two Fish Aquatics

509-244-8978 • 12924 W Highway 2 suite 2

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Two Fish Aquatics is a retail Store in Airway Heights WA. we are a full service tropical fish store selling Fresh and Saltwater Fish

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40. Windfall

509-481-9400 • 100 N Hayford Road, Suite 125 A one-of-a-kind retail experience in Spokane featuring outdoor products, home goods and fine gifts.

MEDICAL LAKE

41. Care & Share Thrift Store 509-299-9024 • 217 N Lefevre St

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Care & Share is a local 2nd hand store that raises funds for the operation of the Medical Lake Food Bank

42. Farm Salvation

509-993-1723 • 106 S Lefevre St Locally sourced home decor & unique gifts, custom gift baskets for every occasion and budget.

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43. Johnson Homestead

Corner of Lefervre St and Lake St Locally raised, inspected, and packaged USDA prime beef cattle in Medical Lake, Washington since 1932. They carry beef sticks, spices, mixes and popcorn, all grown locally.

44. Medical Lake Flower Shop / Wispies Beauty 509-362-4552/ 509-299-3444 • 112 N. Jefferson St

The Medical Lake Flower Shop is the original, first flower shop in Medical Lake. Wispies is an all service Beauty Salon including Hair Services, waxing,and manicures & pedicures.

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DECEMBER 2025 • 31

The Current

45. Owl Pharmacy

509-299-5113 • 123 E Lake St The neighborhood everything Pharmacy!

Your Medical Lake community staple. It’s more than you think!

46. The European Child 509-720-0421 • 212 E Lake St

Classic, traditional clothing in beautiful fabrics like cotton and linen in various price points.

CHENEY 47. A Town and Country Floral 509-235-8991 • 113 F St Suite 1

- A Town & Country Floral has been in Spokane since 1935. We moved to Cheney, WA. a few years ago and will be proud to serve this beautiful community.

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48. Cottonwood Creek Boutique

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509-670-8470 • 317 1st Street Cottonwood Creek is a Women’s Boutique & 24-Hour Tanning Salon located in Cheney, WA The quaint farming community is also the home of Eastern Washington University and the only business to provide 24/7 tanning, esthetician services, unique bohemian- western inspired clothing, home goods and gifts

49. Flor Inmortal Vintage 509-768-1971 • 313 1st St

Mexican imports, vintage and upcycled treasures with a cultural flare.

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50. Paperbound Books 208-284-0197 • 107 F St Suite B Welcome to Paperbound! We are dedicated to sustainability and making sure our products are as renewable as possible. We consider ourselves book RE-distributors.

51. Ree Creations 509-235-4242 • 409 1st St

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Purchase handcrafted and vintage reproductions, made by Debra Nielson & local crafters/artists.

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Shop Gift Guide

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32

• DECEMBER 2025

Shop Gift Guide

52. Tinker and Tamp

The Current

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509-209-6205 • 1911 1st Street

We are a local RPG tabletop gaming and hobby store that loves people, community, and having fun! .

53. Us By the Moon 506 1st Street

Us By The Moon is 100% a family run business.

As a family-run business, we pride ourselves on providing personal service and community.

Come visit us and discover the perfect toy for your little one, while supporting a local business that cares about your friendship and family

54. The Craft Cupboard

50-224-4166 • 404 2nd Street, Suite 114A Arts & Crafts supplies, new and pre-loved, to help craft Cheney community! Locally owned and operated, we aim to fulfill all your crafting needs with an ecological focus and community mindset.

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SPOKANE 55. The Davenport Hotel

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DavenportHotelCollection.com • 333 W Spokane Falls Blvd For a magical evening under the stars, reserve one of our six outdoor Grand Terrace Igloos located at The Davenport Grand Hotel. Enjoy signature cocktails and appetizers while taking in impressive views of Spokane’s iconic skyline in our luxurious Terrace Igloos. Five igloos seat up to six people and our Polar Party Igloo seats up to twelve people!

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Igloos will be open: Thursdays to Sundays, November 9th through February.

Reservations begin at 4:00PM & end at 8:30pm | Reservations required

56. River Park Square 509.363.0304 • 808 West Main Avenue River Park Square features a curated mix of local and national shops, restaurants, and entertainment options all in one central downtown location. As you take in Spokane Falls, stroll through Riverfront Park, and explore our beautiful city, River Park Square is on your path.

SPANGLE 57. Home 509.363.0304 • 115 N. Main Street Lifestyle, Gifts and Decor. Open Wed - Sun from 11 am - 6 pm

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DECEMBER 2025 • 33

The Current

Brought to you by LCM

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• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

Be Merry - Making Memories

Making Memories

Polka Dot Pottery

14700 E. Indiana Avenue, Suite 1184 Spokane Valley 118 S. Pines Road, Spokane Valley Gift something thoughtfully made this holiday season! Visit Polka Dot Pottery to paint your own pottery, make memories with loved ones, and create something you’ll treasure for years to come. It’s time to create!

Spokane Valley Summer Theatre, A Big Band Christmas

Available the 19-21. SVST’s regional holiday favorite A BIG BAND CHRISTMAS returns with a fresh new ‘Around the World’ theme. Expect the same ‘big band’ orchestra sound you know and love, top tier regional vocalists and gorgeous holiday decor with music from Christmas traditions around the globe.

Valley Bowl

8005 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Spokane’s Family Friendly Bowling Center!! Bowling at Valley Bowl is always a blast – Grab your crew and have some fun!

Check out all our prices and complete bowling schedule on our Bowling Page.

Spokane Valley Heritage Museum

12114 E Sprague Ave. Open Wednesday through Saturday 11am to 4pm. Admission between $4 to $7 dollars per person with kids under 7 being free. Come check out the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum which is the largest repository for the heritage of our area from Havana to west of Post Falls, Peone Prairie to Fairfield including Millwood and Liberty Lake.

DECEMBER 2025 • 35

The Current

23403 E Mission Ave #111, Liberty Lake Choose between No Ordinary Zip Line for $120; Tree top adventure $49 to $59. The math is simple but the choice is hard and may get you thinking about needing to do both.

Discounts for groups of 10 people or more.

Cheney Lanes

1706 2nd St, Cheney Located inside of Rosa’s Pizza, Cheney Lanes has been operating since 2002! Keep calm and bowl on!

Roller Valley

9415 E 4th Ave, Spokane Valley Roller Valley was first opened in 1978. No matter the weather outside, we will be open for you to enjoy the best roller skating experience to offer! ADMISSION: Tuesday $10, Friday $15, Saturday $18, Sunday $15, RENTAL OPTIONS: Quads $6.00, Inline $8.00, Helmets Free

EWU URC Ice Skating

Airway Heights Rec Center

11405 W Deno Rd, Airway Heights The Airway Heights Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to making a better community and quality of life for the residents of Airway Heights community and neighboring community. visit airwayheightsparksandrec.org for all opportunities.

1012 Cedar St, Cheney Open skate is a session designed for recreational ice skating only, and is intended for all skill levels. A URC Rink Attendant will be on ice at all times. ALL Skaters must follow and obey the posted URC Ice Arena Rules & Regulations. No Spectators are allowed inside rink area. They can sit in either the lobby or arena seating areas. All skaters under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Be Merry - Making Memories

Mica Moon Zip Tours & Arial Park

36

• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

Introducing the

Safety Awareness Channel

The maps provided depict where citizens have reported Vehicle Thefts, Burglaries, Malicious Mischief and Thefts. The Spokane Valley Police Department and the Spokane County Sheriff’s office analyze this data to determine high crime areas and where to allocate resources.

Citizens who have been a victim of crime are encouraged to call 911, if the crime is in progress, or Crime Check at 4562233, if not in progress, to report a crime.

SAFETY TIP OF THE MONTH The Benefits of Installing Security Cameras on Your Home Deputy Chris Prevention Unit

Johnston,

Crime

Spokane County Sheriff’s Office/Spokane Valley Police Department

Not long ago, most homeowners likely believed that installing a security camera system on their home would be too costly, too complex, and difficult to operate. Now, however, advances in the technology of these systems have made them affordable.

And, if someone like myself can set up and operate one of these systems, anybody can!

CCTV, or “closed-circuit television” systems, are a fantastic way to protect your home. Let’s discuss some of the many benefits of having a CCTV system installed as a form of home security: 1. Visible video cameras are an excellent deterrent! Bad guys, particularly burglars who are looking for a home to enter, just might think twice about breaking into your house if they believe they will be recorded doing so. In this way, the presence of cameras may help prevent you from becoming the victim of a crime. Which leads me into the next benefit…

2. Recording creates evidence! If a burglary, theft, or some other type of crime should occur, law enforcement can often use the video recording from the system to identify, and even prosecute, the perpetrator. The CCTV system that I have on my home helped me do exactly that, on more than one occasion!

3. The ability to check up on the kids or elderly family members in real time. It’s always nice to have another set of eyes on your children as well as your aging relatives when they are home alone. Adding remote video will allow you to log in and check up on them from your office computer, tablet, or smart phone. Indoor cameras can also be used to keep an eye on younger kids and their babysitters.

The Current

4. Checking up on your pets.

Ever wonder what mischief your furry friends are getting into when you’re away? Worried about an older pet that might need special attention?

With a home security camera, you can ensure that your four-legged loved ones are safe and sound. And, not gnawing through the leather on your new sofa!

5. Saving money on homeowners insurance. Most major insurers will offer lower premiums if you choose to protect your property with a CCTV system. If you piggyback an existing security system with CCTV, such an advanced system could net up to a 15% discount on rates. This, of course, depends on many other factors, but I have been informed that such discounts do exist.

So, what to do now? It’s time to do your homework, and begin shopping!

It’s important to first ascertain what your specific needs are, and what your budget will allow. Most modern systems are digital, so there are no pesky cassette tapes to replace- the data that is recorded by the cameras is stored to a hard drive (or the cloud), just like your home computer. Some questions to ask yourself should include: 1. How many cameras do I need?

2. Do I need/want cameras indoors, outdoors, or both?

3. Do I want cameras that are activated by motion, or always on?

4. Do I want the ability to check the cameras remotely, as discussed above?

5. Should I use wired, or wireless cameras?

6. Is IR, or infrared technology important (this allows recording in dark conditions)?

7. Do I want audio monitoring as well, so I can hear what happened/ is happening?

There are other less expensive ways to achieve a little bit of video security, such as “doorbell” cameras, and even systems that have only one or two channels. Just remember, like anything else, you get what you pay for. I installed my system a few years ago, at a cost of roughly $2000. There are systems for $500, and there are systems for $20,000. Doorbell cameras can be had for around $150.

So, if you’ve been considering a CCTV system, now is a great time to do some research and see what’s available to help protect your home.

Be safe, everyone!

DECEMBER 2025 • 37

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DECEMBER 2025 • 39

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• DECEMBER 2025

The Crest

The Current Brought to you by

About and for Spokane Valley area seniors

Higgins says farewell to Spokane Valley City Council

By Nina Culver

Current contributor

When the Spokane Valley City Council had a vacant council seat in early 2013, Rod Higgins was one of several applicants interviewed. But after three tie votes between him and fellow applicant Linda Thompson, a coin toss decided it. Now 12 years later, Higgins decided not to run for reelection and will be stepping down in December at the end of his term.

Though he had a year’s experience serving on the city’s planning commission, Higgins found himself learning how the city really ran and how lean the city’s budget really was. “I was one of those guys that thought the government should run more like a business, that there was so much slop and waste,” he said. “Once you get in there, you learn, not so much.”

said.

Higgins said he particularly enjoyed his time as mayor. “You’re in a position to influence things,” he said. “Working closely with the city manager, you can get things done.”

While the way Higgins originally got on the council was unusual, what was also unusual is Higgins’ background. He grew up near Wallace, Idaho, the son and grandson of miners. He studied finance at the University of Idaho and served in the U.S Army briefly.

He’s had multiple jobs in a variety of different fields, though he started and ended in the mining industry, holding jobs with Star Mine, Bunker Hill Mine, Day Mines, Sunshine Mine and the Nevada Mining Association. He also worked as a broker at Merrill Lynch, a mutual fund manager at Safeco and a trust officer at Pacific National Bank.

He took a detour to be a seed farmer in Sequim for three years, worked for the U.S. Postal Service and was a lobbyist with Sunshine Mine. At the end of his career he was the director of the International Association of Mine Professionals.

A: Being an active participant in helping the City grow and mature into the best managed and financially sound city in the state.

Higgins, who is now 83, retired in 2005. While he’s enjoyed his time with the city, he said he believes he’s too old to keep serving. “I still shouldn’t be in public office,” he said. “It’s time to get out.”

A: There are two, actually.

The first is our City Hall. We were rapidly outgrowing our old location and the threatened rent increases made it imperative that we find a new location. Since we don’t have a city center per se, the current location situated us nicely in what I would call our Community Center. The second is our moving to facilitate the path for developing the northeastern section of our Industrial Park.

That was a giant leap forward in realizing the importance and potential of Spokane Valley in Eastern Washington.

Higgins doesn’t have grand plans for his new retirement, though he’d like to go back to playing golf again. He also plans to spend more time with his wife of more than five decades, Gloria, who has been struggling with health issues.

Q: What has been your favorite part of serving on the Spokane Valley City Council, including your time as mayor?

“It’s back to the place we wanted it when it was first done,” Higgins

Q: What was your hardest day on the council?

A: Changing City Managers.

City Council has one employee and that is the City Manager. When the direction of either fails to be in concert, corrections must be made.

The reaction to that kind of change was turbulent.

Q: When you first joined the council, what was your goal?

The city of Spokane Valley has a city administrator form of government. Each January the council members elect one of their own to serve as mayor, a largely ceremonial role. Higgins served as mayor from 2016 to 2017 and again from 2018 to 2019. He was also deputy mayor from 2022 to 2023.

Higgins is most proud of building a City Hall to replace rented space the city was outgrowing. The project on Sprague Avenue was marred by foundation problems discovered shortly after the building opened in 2017. Work was done to correct it and the city sued Meridian Construction for the cost of repairs. The city settled with the construction company for $11.75 million earlier this year.

Q: Is there a particular vote or project that you supported that you are most proud of?

A: To try to make the City run like a business. From the outside that looks like an easy goal. However, outside influences like state and federal laws and regulations make that goal difficult to achieve, and those influences continue to grow.

Q: Do you have any advice for the new council members?

A: Patience. The speed of government moves at a pace that sees snails passing it. Don’t get discouraged, and don’t fall for snake oil salesmen claiming they have a solution to everything.

Chances are those solutions are for personal gain.

Submitted photo Soon to be former Spokane Valley City Council Member Rod Higgins served for the last 12 years after an appointment to the council in early 2013. He served as the Mayor for 2016-2020.

Q: What’s next for you?

A: To find something to keep me busy but not too busy while I try to improve my golf game.

DECEMBER 2025 • 41

The Current

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42

• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

Sponsored By:

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Valley schools see postseason successes, state title chances

By John McCallum Current contributor

CENTRAL VALLEY Girls swimming Central Valley swimmers competed in 2025 through a co-op agreement with the Cheney High School swimming team.

At District 5/6 competition Oct. 31-Nov. 1 at Walla Walla’s Harvey Aquatic Center, sophomore Bostyn Shoemaker and freshman Natalie Gunderson qualified for state.

Shoemaker won the district title in the 100-yard backstroke and was second in the 100 butterfly while Gunderson was second in both the 500 freestyle and 100 breaststroke.

At 3A state at the Federal Way Aquatic Center Nov. 1315, Shoemaker advanced in both events, making the B finals on Saturday. She posted a time of 1:0.35 seconds for 12th in the backstroke and 1:02.11 for 14th in the butterfly.

Gunderson placed 22nd overall in the 500 free and 21st in the 100 breaststroke.

EAST VALLEY Cross country

The Knights girls team placed second at 2A District 6 competition Nov. 1, qualifying them for state at Pasco Nov. 8.

At Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco, East Valley was led by freshman Katelyn Scharff, placing 68th in 21:08.80, with junior Hazel Ebert 129th in 22:53.00, senior Camryn Petersen 146th in 23:34.80, freshman Peyton Fisher 147th in 23:41.10 and junior Nellie Goggin 150th in 23:56.0. Seniors Ava Payne and Ella Shammo were 160th and 161st in 26:40.70 and 26:54.00.

Scharff was fifth at districts, with Goggin 12th, Fisher, Petersen and Ebert 14-16, Shammo 23rd and Payne 25th.

Football The Knights accomplished something they hadn’t done in five

years — make the postseason.

East Valley had a chance to at least tie for the GSL 2A title if they could knock off rival West Valley, ranked No. 10 by the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association RPI. The Knights were tied 7-7 at the half with the Eagles, only to see the visitors from Millwood rattle off 24-unanswered second half points for the 31-7 win.

But head coach Adam Fisher felt his team was postseason-bound win or lose, and he was right. The Knights earned a spot in the District 1/2/3/4/5/6 playoffs against second-ranked Orting Nov. 8. The Cardinals proved too much for East Valley, shutting out the visitors 56-0 and ending the Knights season.

East Valley finished with a 4-2 GSL mark, 5-5 overall.

“East Valley football had a very successful season being second in the GSL and making the playoffs,” Fisher said.

East Valley’ Tarin Fields (QB), Connor Nicholson (DB), Baron Botello (OL), Marvin ZaunaKavezeri (WR), and Mason Watt (LB) made the All-GSL First Team.

Girls swimming Senior Brigid Dinnen has been a one-person swimming juggernaut for the Knights. Competing the past four years as part of a co-op agreement with the Cheney High School swimming team, Dinnen has amassed six state titles and two runner-up finishes at 2A competition.

She wrapped up her high school career with a pair of District 5/6 titles in the 50 freestyle and 100 freestyle at Walla Walla’s Harvey Aquatic Center, Oct. 31-Nov. 1, and topped that with titles at 2A state.

In Federal Way, Dinnen posted a finals time of 24.26 seconds to capture the 50 free state title. In the 100 free, she turned in a time of 52.87 in the finals for her third straight title in the event.

Photo by John McCallum West Valley sophomore defender Aubree Chase (11) does head-to-head for a free ball with Cedarcrest senior midfielder Addy Jensen during the first half of the Eagles 2A quarterfinal win over the visiting Red Wolves.

Dinnen has titles in the 200 free and 100 backstroke as a freshman See SPORTS SUPPLY, Page 45

DECEMBER 2025 • 43

The Current

brought to you by

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

From leadership to service West Valley High School Senior Class President JoHanna McCurdy is a natural leader. JoHanna has been apart of her class leadership for the last three years serving as Vice President her sophomore year, Class Officer last year and now President this year. She is also President of the Eagles Choir, having been only one of eight members of the Eagles chamber choir, JoHanna sings Alto and plans post concert events for the choir. The choir will be singing Christmas carols at the Millwood Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec 13th if you haven’t had a chance to hear them. JoHanna is also Secretary of the Culinary Leadership program at West Valley and participates in the Culinary Class this year where they have most recently made muffins for the Veterans that came for the schools Veterans Day Assembly. JoHanna is also no stranger to the sports area, playing shortstop in softball since the 6th grade and was apart of the Spokane Indians Youth Team. After graduation JoHanna is planning to go exploring and find a college outside of the Spokane area to study Psychology or music.

West Valley Senior Nathan Jeffries is all in for sports playing on the Eagles Football and Soccer teams. Nathan has played football since the 8th grade, and plays wide receiver, strong safety, kicker and punter on the Eagles team. Before high school Jeffries also enjoyed playing soccer year round starting when he was only 4 years old. On the soccer teams Nathan enjoys playing offensive as right or left wing and forward. While he used to play soccer year-round including with the FC Spokane Club, after getting to high school and joining the Football team, Nathan enjoys just playing on the school teams. Last year Jeffries was recognized on his Football participation as the 2nd team all-league kicker and this year is being recognized as the 1st Team DB, Kicker, and Punter. After graduation Jeffries plans on pursuing a career as an electrician.

Small Business Owner, IT Software Engineer, recovering machinist, and most recent City Council Candidate Kris Pockell has a heart for community. Through his small business Elixir Hot Sauce, Kris intentionally sources local ingredients and supports nearby businesses believing that small businesses thrive when they uplift one another.

Kris was raised in Spokane Valley attending Adams Elementary, Evergreen Junior High and then Central Valley High School.

Most recently Kris has been attending City Council meetings and getting involved with the City Leadership, first running for the state legislature in 2024 and then City Council in 2025. While unfortunately both unsuccessful attempts, Kris has continued to stay involved, active in the community, and never shy from getting involved in helping make our community a better place.

With Hot Sauce in tow, you can find Kris at the local farmers markets, community events, or even city council meetings.

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• DECEMBER 2025

The Current

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The Current

SPORTS SUPPLY

Photo by John McCallum

Continued from page 42

West Valley senior forward Claire Busse (9) battles Cedarcrest senior defender Jessica Pritchard-Gailey for the ball in the third-ranked Eagles 7-0 quarterfinal win over the visiting Red Wolves at University High School Nov. 15.

and second-place finishes in the 200 free as a sophomore and junior.

UNIVERSITY Cross country The Titan girls had a goal to return to state and improve on last year’s seventh-place finish and they did both — moving up a notch to sixth on the course at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco.

University finished with 196 points, eight ahead of fellow Central Valley School District rival Ridgeline and 31 points back of fellow Greater Spokane League foe Mt. Spokane in fifth. Mercer Island capture the state title with 100 points.

Senior Kyla Roberts led the Titans, placing 16th in a time of 19:07.70. Freshman Alissa Renneker was 27th in 19:32.90, sophomore Peyton Richter 43rd in 19:55.70 with juniors Mariah Denney and Morgan Sulpizio 77th and 78th respectively in 20:26.30 and 20:28.20 to complete University’s scoring five.

Sophomore Ainsley Miller was 93rd in 20:42.20 and senior Chloe Nelson was 112th in 20:56.60 to wrap up the varsity finishes.

Twenty teams and 196 runners competed overall.

University placed second at the District 6 championships Nov. 1 at Wandemere Golf Course, 17 points back of district champion Mt. Spokane. Roberts was fifth overall with Renneker sixth, Richter 10th, Sulpizio 20th, Miller 22nd, Denney 27th and Nelson 29th.

Senior Luke Trefry was the only University boy to qualify out of districts for state. At Wandemere, he placed 21st with a time of 17:14.50, edging North Central’s Miles Watson by 1.3 seconds for the final slot to state from District 6.

At Pasco, Trefry placed 72nd overall with a time of 16:46.4.

WEST VALLEY Cross country The Eagle boys advanced to 2A state as District 6 champions, outscoring Pullman 23-41 for the title. West Valley landed all five scoring runners in the top 10, led by John Kiernan III, who won with a time of 17:23.32.

The sophomore was followed by junior Evan McKenzie and

senior Caden Hoskinson 4-5 and senior Lucas Mortensen and junior Anthony Berube 8-9. Sophomores Ryder Chavez and Isaac Hendrickson finished 14-15.

At state in Pasco, West Valley placed 10th out of 16 teams. Kiernan and McKenzie were 28th and 29th in 16:38.50 and 16:39.20, Hoskinson was 66th in 17:15.10, Mortenson 108th in 17:58.50 and Hendrickson 134th in 18:24.10 to cap the Eagles scoring. Chavez was 139th (18:30.30) and Berube 156th (20;21.30).

Two girls advanced to state out of districts. Senior Quincy Andrews was 37th on the Sun Willows Course in 20:30.30 and junior Aviana Marek was 77th in 21:22.30.

Football The Eagles came up a bit short in their quest for an extended postseason run. After winning the GSL 2A title outright with a 31-7 road win at East Valley, West Valley matched up in the District 1/2/3/4/5/6 game against 13thranked Aberdeen Nov. 8, emerging as a 48-7 winner.

The win advanced the No. 10

Eagles to the round of 16 where they faced sixth-ranked Lynden in Ferndale. After trailing 7-6 at the half, the Lions outscored West Valley 22-7 in the second half for the 28-14 win.

The Eagles finish the season 6-0 in the GSL and 9-2 overall.

Girls soccer The undefeated, unscored-upon Eagles are two wins from a 2A state title as of press time Nov. 19. West Valley has outscored its postseason opponents 27-0, including an 8-0 first-round win over Nathan Hale and 7-0 quarterfinal victory over Cedarcrest to advance to the Final Four Nov. 21-22 at Federal Way Memorial Stadium.

Next up for the third-ranked, second-seeded Eagles (19-0) is Hockinson from District 4’s Greater St. Helens League. The Hawks are 16-4, with two of those losses coming against fellow league foe Columbia River who is ranked second in the state and seeded No. 1.

Hockinson knocked off topranked, third-seeded Sehome 1-0 to advance to Federal Way where they

pose an interesting challenge for head coach CC Collins’ Eagles.

“I have been watching some film on Hockinson,” Collin said in an email. “I’ve noticed they are pretty physical and are quick to press on defense. They do struggle to link more than a couple passes in a row though.”

Collins said West Valley will still be able to play its possessionstyle game, but must make quicker decisions because of Hockinson’s press. He believes the Eagles are better at moving the ball around and including more players in their attack than other teams, including the Hawks.

“We are all strong, not like other teams that only have a couple key players,” Collins said. “Even our bench has proven to hit the ground running and continue to play our beautiful style of soccer.”

If West Valley should prevail, they would face the winner of the Columbia River / fifth-seeded Anacortes game in the title match Nov. 22.

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The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granting women the right to vote was ratified on Aug. 18, 1920. Known as the Women’s Suffrage Movement, it took activists and reformers nearly 100 years to win that right nationally. Though May Arkwright Hutton did not live to see that day, her efforts for the cause of suffrage contributed to the amendment passing.

Hutton and her husband Levi struck it rich with their investment in the Hercules Mine located in the Coeur d’Alene Mountains in Burke, Idaho. In 1904, May was a candidate for the Idaho State Senate but was narrowly defeated.

When they moved to Spokane in 1906, she lost her ability to vote in state elections. Having successfully worked for the cause in the state of Idaho 10 years before, she became passionate about the suffrage movement in YO U LO VE Washington state.

for the subscription to begin with the issue printed the end of that month.

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The state convention on suffrage was held in Spokane in October of 1909.

To reinvigorate Eastern Washington supporters, the Spokane Equal Suffrage League opened Camp Equality in July of that year. The Spokane Daily Chronicle described the location as “on the wooded shore of picturesque Liberty Lake.”

Under the direction of May Hutton and Mrs. La Reine Baker, tent-houses were rented at Kalez Park for a month to house the camp headquarters. Special

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Hutton pitched Camp Equality on shores of Liberty Lake

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DECEMBER 2025 • 47

Photo courtesy of Liberty Lake Historical Society Counterclockwisefromtopleft:Ayellowsuffragepennant,circa1909;MayArkwrightHutton,circa1903;KalezParkLanding,circa1909;UnderlyingphotoisKalezParkhousetents,circa1909. arrangements were made with the electric railway and the lake’s boatmen to deliver participants to the camp.

The rendezvous for the suffragists was lavishly decorated in yellow pennants, the main color of the movement, along with American flags.

Hutton and Baker were intent on making Camp Equality a missionary camp for the dissemination of the suffrage gospel. A rally was held the first Sunday after they opened the camp.

Members of suffrage clubs and friends of the cause showed up in support with picnic baskets in tote to spend the day enjoying a program of speeches and informal talks. The College Equal Suffrage Club of Spokane, whose 250 members vowed to convert their suitors to women’s rights before entering upon engagement, was largely represented.

Their battle cry of “No Vote No Husband,” could be heard throughout the camp.

Hutton was politically savvy; her approach as a suffragist was to be persuasive not militant. After butting heads with the state’s westside leadership, whom she saw as antagonists, she founded her own statewide organization. In addition to bolstering support for the cause, they used the camp to plan a campaign that would reach every county in the state.

After Washington women gained the right to vote in 1910, Hutton received praise for her ability and the tact with which she carried out her part of the campaign.

The campaign for women’s suffrage in the state of Washington was pivotal in women gaining the right to vote in the United States. It revitalized the suffrage movement nationally being the first state to grant the right in almost 15 years.

May Arkwright Hutton’s contributions locally, at the state level and nationally helped make this possible.

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